The subject of Japanese ceramics and pottery is interesting and complex. There are so many Japanese styles of with unique works by specific Japanese masters. Let’s take a look at some of them :

Kakiemon (柿右衛門) Porcelain was first circulated in the 17^th century. Not only was Kakiemon Porcelain valued in Japan, it was treasured by importers and merchants from the West. The distinguishing mark of Kakiemon Porcelain is the emphasis of the white background against a decorative and highly stylized use of blues, reds, greens and yellows.

Unlike the Kakiemon Porcelain, Kutani ware (九谷焼,) is a type of porcelain using multiple colors; not just blues and reds. While Kakiemon Porcelain has dainty and delicate designs, Kutani Porcelain designs are bold and strong. Kutani Porcelains are known for their purples, reds, blues, yellows and greens. In the photo on the left, this Kutani piece is decorated with lions and peonies.

Satsuma ware (薩摩焼) began in the 16^th century and is still being made today. Satsuma ware is an ivory colored, delicate, thin and soft piece of porcelain. The Satsuma porcelain is known for its crackled glaze and fancy polychrome pieces. They are also known to have a bit of lined gold in some of the pieces, with beautiful designs.

Raku ware (楽焼) is traditionally the type of pottery used to make the tea bowls used in Japanese tea ceremony. It’s not uncommon to see raku bowls as imperfect. In other words, raku bowls may have lopsided edges, crooked bottoms etc. This is done on purpose because each bowl is considered a one of a kind original; unique from other bowls.

Hagi ware (萩焼) is known for its simple and subtle look. Hagi potters will often mix different kinds of clay and combine them in one piece. Then they coat their products with a translucent glaze made of feldspar, which is a white colored ore. This glaze is what gives hagi ware a white, shiny look. Authentic hagi wares have a chip on the bottom, which is a tradition that goes back to Edo times.